AGRO Sr. Equipment Operator

Job Summary

We are seeking an experienced and leadership-oriented Senior Equipment Operator to execute all equipment-related operations at our stevia farm in Archer, Florida. This senior role is responsible for the safe, efficient, and reliable operation of all farm machinery used in stevia cultivation, maintenance, and harvesting. The ideal candidate combines expert-level equipment operation skills with strong organizational and team leadership abilities in a specialty crop environment.

Key Responsibilities

Equipment Operation & Optimization

• Safely and proficiently operate a wide range of agricultural equipment including tractors, planters, cultivators, sprayers, irrigation systems, harvesters, and stevia-specific machinery.
• Lead field operations for soil preparation, planting, crop maintenance, pest/weed management, irrigation, and harvesting to maximize stevia yield and quality.
• Adjust equipment settings and techniques based on crop conditions, soil types, and weather common to North Central Florida.

Maintenance Oversight

• Oversee routine maintenance, preventive care, and minor repairs to minimize equipment downtime.
• Maintain detailed records of equipment usage, maintenance logs, fuel consumption, and repairs.
• Coordinate with external vendors or mechanics for major repairs and warranty work.

Safety & Compliance

• Enforce strict safety standards, including proper PPE usage, equipment inspections, and regulatory compliance (OSHA, EPA, and Florida agricultural regulations).
• Conduct regular safety training and equipment inspections for the team.

Additional Duties

• Assist with other farm operations during peak seasons as needed.

Qualifications & Requirements

Experience:

• 7+ years of progressive experience operating and managing farm equipment in commercial agriculture.
• Experience with specialty crops, row crops, or high-value plants is strongly preferred.

Skills & Knowledge:

• Expert-level proficiency operating modern agricultural machinery (GPS/autosteer systems a plus).
• Strong mechanical knowledge and troubleshooting ability.
• Proven leadership and team development skills.
• Knowledge of irrigation systems, precision agriculture tools, and subtropical farming practices.
• Valid Florida driver's license (CDL preferred). Clean driving record required.

Physical & Work Demands:

• Ability to work long hours outdoors in Florida's heat, humidity, and seasonal weather.
• Capable of lifting 50+ lbs and performing physically demanding tasks.
• Flexibility for early mornings, evenings, and weekends during planting and harvest seasons.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Prior experience with stevia or similar crops.
• Mechanical certifications, welding skills, or precision ag technology training.
• Basic computer skills for maintenance software and record-keeping.